United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania is going ahead with a Day of Caring for those in need during the pandemic. 

“COVID-19 forced us to find new and innovative ways to engage our volunteer community, and more and more people are asking how they can help,” Wendy Koch, director of volunteer engagement at United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania, says in a press release. 

Those interested in volunteering can create:

1. “I care” cards for senior citizens: Write a short note of encouragement for seniors who may feel isolated and lonely.
2. Personal protection pack: Donate face masks, disinfectant wipes, disposable gloves and hand sanitizer to help families and seniors in need stay safe. Collect all items in a sealed gallon-size bag.
3. Baby supplies pack: Donate a pack of size 2 to 6 diapers, a package of wipes and a bottle of hand sanitizer for struggling families with an infant or toddler.
4. Summer activity kits: Make activity kits for kids that include coloring books, bubbles, crayons, markers and pens. Put all items in a sealed gallon-size bag.

If interested, volunteers should sign up here. Projects will be collected at contactless drop-off points on June 20. Drop off points include United Way offices in the following counties:

Allegheny: 1300 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh

Butler: 407 West Jefferson St., Butler

Westmoreland: 1101 Old Salem Road #101, Greensburg